Vancouver Weekender: August 30 to September 1, 2013

We’re hoping you’re fortunate enough to have received the okay from your boss to exit the office on the early side – bonus if that boss happens to be you. Make your way down to Gastown and grab a seat at Chill Winston with friends for some much-needed cocktailing as you gear up for the weekend ahead. As an added bonus, if you’re feeling lazy and don’t want to budge just yet, head around the corner to hipster central and pay a visit to Guilt & Co., where board games, live entertainment and plenty of plaid awaits.

Next, head over to Stanley Park and catch the latest act to take over the stage of the Malkin Bowl, The Sheepdogs. They’re up Friday night starting at 6:30pm and you can try your luck at scoring a $30 ticket here. Post concert, meander on over to Buckstop for a late-night bite. Since opening earlier this summer, this industry hot spot has become one that we unabashedly frequent. Owner Fiona will always insure your glass is full of her latest cocktail creation. Did we mention they’re open til 2am? Bonus.

Saturday, be sure to take advantage of the return of sunshine and head to the beach to catch some summer rays. Drink in the season and be adventurous with your sun-seeking – why not check out Wreck Beach or, if you’re feeling up for a little change of scenery, make your way over to Whytecliff Park or out to White Rock’s Crescent Beach where you’ll also score a few beachfront locales to indulge and cool off (like this spot). 

Also worth checking out come Saturday is the Strathcona Garage Sale… not just your average garage sale at that. There will be plenty of vendors hawking their goods, coffee and snacks to keep your shopping skills in tip top shape, and plenty of deals to score.  One of the largest collective garage sales in the city, this one spans a few blocks (just to give you an idea). For more info, click here

Yet another long weekend and limited time only event taking place (until September 1) in Stanley Park is Fall Away Home. This performance is somewhat of a modern day fairy tale about a girl who falls down a hole and finds herself falling all the way through the planet. It’s an outdoor acrobatic extravaganza performed by the much-lauded Boca del Lupo troupe of performers and melds action, animation, audience participation and Boca del Lupo’s use of technology and theatre craft. 

Come Sunday, be sure to check out the return of the 3rd Annual Re-Up BBQ that’s taking place at the River Market in New Westminster. We love the quaint waterfront location – and this event has been undeniably growing in popularity, so worth the short drive (or Skytrain ride). Be sure to bring your meat-loving friends, as this is a griller’s paradise. Indulge in house -ured meats, sausages, beef brisket and beer to wash it all down.

Top photo courtesy theslcfoodie.com